Music Tutor - Beginner Piano and Guitar

Community Services Foundation, Inc.; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 12,000 - 24,000; Part time

Job summary

Community Services Foundation, Inc. seeks a Music Tutor to deliver beginner-level instruction in after-school programs across three DC sites. You will lead small groups (up to six), create engaging lessons, and help students develop basic music skills, creativity, and confidence.

The role emphasizes collaboration with staff and a student-centered approach in a supportive community setting. Qualifications include a degree in music education, after-school programming experience, and the ability to

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in music education.
• Experience in after-school or community-based programming.
• Background working with diverse student populations.
• Proficiency in piano performance and instruction.
• Experience teaching beginner-level students, preferably in a group setting.
• Strong understanding of basic music theory and instructional techniques.
• Ability to engage and motivate youth in an after-school environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Reliable transportation and ability to travel between multiple DC sites.
• Must pass a criminal background check.

Responsibilities

• Provide beginner instruction to students in small groups (up to six).
• Develop and implement lesson plans introducing foundational music concepts.
• Adapt teaching methods to diverse learning styles and skill levels.
• Foster a positive, inclusive learning environment.
• Monitor progress and provide regular feedback to students and staff.
• Coordinate scheduling and transitions between program sites.
• Maintain instruments and ensure proper care of equipment.
• Collaborate with staff to align music with broader goals.
• Support preparation for informal performances, recitals, or showcases.

Skills

Piano performance

Group instruction

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Adaptability

Diversity experience

Travel to multiple sites

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in music education

Job description

The Music Tutor is responsible for delivering high-quality, beginner-level instruction to students as part of a structured daily tutoring program. The tutoring program takes place onsite in our affordable housing communities where our students live at a modern community center.The tutor will provide engaging, age-appropriate lessons that build foundational music skills, foster creativity, and support students’ overall academic and personal development. Instruction will be delivered to small groups of up to six students at three sites each.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide beginner instruction to students in small group settings (up to six students). 30 minute block of instruction.
• Develop and implement lesson plans that introduce foundational music concepts, including rhythm, notation, technique, and basic music theory.
• Adapt teaching methods to meet diverse learning styles and skill levels.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and engaging learning environment that encourages student participation and confidence.
• Monitor student progress and provide regular feedback to students and program staff.
• Coordinate scheduling and transitions between program sites as needed.
• Maintain instruments and ensure proper care and use of equipment.
• Collaborate with program staff to align music instruction with broader academic and enrichment goals.
• Support preparation for informal performances, recitals, or showcases as appropriate.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or master's degree in music education.
• Prior experience in after-school or community-based programming.
• Background working with diverse student populations.
• Demonstrated proficiency in piano performance and instruction.
• Experience teaching beginner-level students, preferably in a group setting.
• Strong understanding of basic music theory and instructional techniques.
• Ability to engage and motivate youth in an after-school environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Reliable transportation and ability to travel between multiple sites in Washington, DC.
• Must successfully pass a criminal background check prior to employment.

Work Environment & Expectations

• Twelve hours per week during the school year and summer camp.
• Three tutoring programs in Washington, DC
• Instruction occurs in an after-school program setting.
• Tutors must be punctual, organized, and able to manage small groups effectively.
• Flexibility and adaptability are essential to meet program and student needs.
• Must pass a criminal background check.

This role plays a critical part in expanding access to arts education and enriching the lives of students through music. The Music Tutor helps students build confidence, discipline, and creativity while developing a lifelong appreciation for music.